Uni hosts a global gathering

Inclusion and diversity will be the main themes of a major conference that will be held in the UK for the first time – right here in Paisley.

The event at the University of the West of Scotland will see around 250 delegates from around the world come to the town.

The aim of the conference is for Paisley’s academics to explore new developments in inclusion and diversity in higher education with colleagues from around the world.

Uni bosses say education institutions around the world are seek to move beyond widening access agendas and towards integrating inclusion into all aspects of the educational experience.

The main speakers at the conference will be UWS’s principal and vicechancellor, Professor Craig Mahoney, who will give a speech on inclusion and participation and will be joined by a number of other influential speakers.

These will include Dame Ruth Silver, who co-chairs the Skills Commission.

She had been involved in the Scottish Government’s independent commission on widening access, and will share her experiences of shaping policy in higher education.

Professor Lorraine Stefani, of the University of Auckland, will speak on inclusive leadership.

Dr Jaimie Hoffman, of the University of Southern California, whose research and leadership focuses on student experience and access to education, will share her knowledge of best practice.

Professor Mahoney said: “We understand the need to develop integrated, inclusive educational experiences and teaching and learning environments.

“At UWS we strongly value and encourage diversity and aim to provide an innovative learning environment for our students.

“We are particularly proud that, compared to other Scottish universities, we attract the highest proportion of students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.”

Delegates will enjoy a gala dinner and ceilidh, held at Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

The conference will open today and runs until Friday.